I've set up shop in NWA through the holidays for the express purpose of getting boots on the ground information.

I'd be surprised and dissapointed if it was Gruden. I have doubts on Butch Davis, Larry Coker, or any of the older coaches that have been mentioned.

I don't think it'll be a young guy like a Dave Doeren, James Franklin, or Sarkisian type.

The NFL route is interesting, but the timing of a guy currently in the NFL would be a PR hit all over again. Not sure if we'd want someone who's been out of the NFL much less college for a few.

I keep reverting back to it may likely be someone from the North due to Jeff Long's time at Michigan, E. Kentucky, and Pitt.

It could be anyone from Jim Tressel to Paul Chryst to Barry Switzer to Gary Patterson.

This search has been so long, and there's been a ton of interest in the job, it could go in any direction. I'm more likely to better gauge who it won't be.

My top 5 at this point would still include Pat Fitzgerald, but no longer Franklin, Briles, or Garrick McGee. I think Pat Hill is still an interesting candidate. The Gundy and Patterson rumors have to make one think one of those 2 are in the final discussion. Butch Davis supporters are few but they carry mega weight. Then there's Tubbs. He's wanted this job for the last 20 years, it may be time for him to finally get it.

In the end, we'll know when they're introducing the wife and kids, and learning to call the hogs. Til then I won't get excited about any rumors but stay optimistic that we get the guy that can make our dreams come true. lol.

the best thing that could have happened to us and did given the circumstances, was petrino not press for his buyout. we don't owe anyone shite. that puts us at a distinct advantage versus tennesee/kentucky/auburn

quote:the best thing that could have happened to us and did given the circumstances, was petrino not press for his buyout. we don't owe anyone shite. that puts us at a distinct advantage versus tennesee/kentucky/auburn

TENNESSEE boosters will pay whatever it takes to get the coach they want.